50th anniversary of the closing of Alcatraz prison

March 20, 2013

Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary closed on March 21, 1963. During its 29 years as a prison it held some of America's most infamous criminals, some of whom tried desperately to escape "the Rock."

National Archives

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Alcatraz inmate John Giles attempted to escape in 1945.
He spent years piecing together an Army uniform from the Army laundry that was delivered to the docks. This picture was taken following his capture. Giles attempted to an escape on a military launch.

National Archives

11of48

Alcatraz inmate John Giles attempted to escape in 1945.
He spent years piecing together an Army uniform from the Army laundry that was delivered to the docks. This picture was taken following his capture. Giles attempted to an escape on a military launch.